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Get Ready for Tour Day 2012!

Published by info on Mon, 2012-09-10 14:32

Docomomo US Tour Day 2012 is almost here! In less than a month enthusiasts of the modernist movement will be able to take part in one of the largest nation-wide events dedicated to exploring sites and structures. Docomomo US has pulled together an exciting line up of tours and programs taking place in over twenty states exploring the country’s diverse and fascinating modern architecture.

Some of the exciting events include:

Touring the master plan of a “village within the city” known as San Francisco’s Diamond Heights neighborhood with Docomomo US/NOCA. Constructed in the 1950s and 1960s, the area occupies an influential position on Red Rock and Gold Mine hills and includes some of the city’s best modern residential architecture. The Diamond Heights area was one of the last areas in San Francisco to be developed, and was the first to move away from the city’s grid system. The area has streets that work harmoniously with its hilly setting, providing views in every direction.

A2 Modern will host Michigan State Historic Preservation Officer Brian Conway to discuss the Michigan Modern project. Michigan Modern seeks to create awareness of the states’ important role internationally in the development of Modernism here in the United States.

Mr. Conway states: “Michigan’s influence on Modernism began with the design and construction of automobile factories as early as 1907. The clean lines, materials, and construction techniques used to build factories inspired the architecture that came later and flourished during the post-World War II period.

Those within driving distance of New York City should make sure to attend Docomomo US/Tri-state as they invite the public to tour Eero Saarinen's iconic TWA Flight Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The beautiful terminal built in 1962, has been closed since 2001. Charles Kramer, AIA of Beyer Belle has participated in the terminal’s extensive restoration efforts and will lead a tour discussing the dynamic terminal and its restoration.

Image: TWA Flight Center photo from the Municipal Arts Society of New York

Explore the Mid-Century Modern Indian Hills neighborhood in Omaha, Nebraska this Tour Day! This amazing planned mixed-use neighborhood, built in the 1960's by a single developer, included residential properties, apartment buildings, commercial businesses, a movie theater, a hotel, churches, shopping, parks, and schools.

A number of homes and businesses will be open for interior tours and many documented properties will be noted for exterior viewing by foot, bicycle, and car. The tour is organized by Restore Omaha, in partnership with 2020 Omaha.

Image: Indian Hills Residence. Credit: Restore Omaha

Tour Day starts October 6, 2012 with events continuing through the week. Please make sure to check registration requirements for events you are interested to reserve your spot. Events may sell out or book up quickly so sign up today! Additionally please also check the dates of the tours or events you plan to attend since some tours will be taking place prior to the official Tour Day date.

Check out details on all tours and events on our website: http://www.docomomo-us.org/tour day 2012. The website will be regularly updated with announcements surrounding tours, registration requirements, meeting times and places. For information on the go about Tour Day follow us on Twitter: @docomomo_us (#Tourday), and like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DOCOMOMO.US.